Discovery Networks acquires Setanta Sports Asia

NEW DELHI: Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific (DNAP) today announced acquisition of sports channel Setanta Sports Asia which primarily broadcasts rugby matches.

Setanta Sports Asia is one of the fastest-growing sports channels in Asia reaching over 42 million homes across 16 countries, said DNAP, a division of Discovery Communications, in a statement.

“The acquisition is bolstered by Setanta’s five-year renewal of SANZAR (South African, New Zealand and Australian Rugby) rights, including all home international matches, plus Super Rugby – both of which represent some of the most sought-after rugby union properties,” the company said.

In addition to that, it has programmes on European Rugby Champions Cup and Challenge Cup, National Rugby League, Aviva Premiership and Guinness Pro 12.

Commenting on the development, Discovery Networks International President JB Perrette said:” The acquisition of Setanta Sports Asia is an important investment for Discovery as we further build scale and expand our business in Asia”.

A year before, Discovery gained a controlling interest in Eurosport which took the former into sports arena.

“Similar to the strategy we have adopted for Eurosport, we will look to build on the strengths of Setanta and fortify its leadership as a must-have sports channel across Asia,” he added.

Setanta Sports Asia airs more than 500 rugby matches per season and its multi-device player Setanta Sports Plus is accessible online, and through tablets and smartphones.